In Memoriam: Robert Gretton

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We are saddened to mark the passing of Robert Norman (Bob) Gretton, former editor of Canadian Architect magazine.

Robert Norman Gretton, son of the late Margaret and George Divall, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 27th in Toronto. He is predeceased by his beloved younger brother, Peter Gretton. Born in England, Bob served in the Royal Air Force as a pilot and flight engineer during the second World War. In 1957, Bob came to Canada where he met his beloved wife, Milly.

Bob worked as the managing editor of The Canadian Architect, later becoming its editor. He won many journalism awards over the span of his 30-year career. In 1990, he became an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in England, and an Honorary Member of the Ontario Association of Architects.

Bob was a voracious reader, an accomplished writer, and a talented photographer with a keen eye for graphic design. He had a passion for books, film and music, particularly traditional jazz and blues. He was always on the cutting edge of emerging technologies. He was also a fierce defender of animals and adored cats and dogs. Bob was a kind and loving father, husband, and brother, whose gentle manner belied a sharp wit and a wonderfully dark sense of humour. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.

Bob is survived by his wife, Milly; by his daughters, Viveca (Tom), Monica (Christopher); by his grandchildren, Sarah, John, and Xavier; by his sisters, Barbara, Margaret and Jeanette; by his brother, George; and by his many nieces and nephews in England and Australia.

Canadian Architect

Canadian Architect is a magazine for architects and related professionals practicing in Canada. Canada's only monthly design publication, Canadian Architect has been in continuous publication since 1955. All posts by Canadian Architect